Evaluating Automotive Vocational Education via the Link and Match 8+i Model in Indonesia

Abstract

This study evaluates the implementation of the 'Link and Match 8+i' vocational policy within the Light Vehicle Automotive Engineering programs at SMKN 3 and SMKN 5 Makassar, Indonesia. Employing Stufflebeam’s Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) evaluation model, an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design examined structural alignment, resource readiness, operational fidelity, and educational outcomes. The study involved 164 respondents selected via proportional random sampling from a total population of 267. Data were collected through documentation, semi-structured interviews, and validated questionnaires (α=0.965 for process, α=0.964 for product), analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Context evaluation confirmed robust policy backing and active industrial partnerships. Input evaluation demonstrated strong curricular and human resource readiness, alongside persistent infrastructural bottlenecks in workshop facilities and teaching factory deployment. Process evaluation revealed high operational fidelity, with 86.4% of respondents rating implementation as highly appropriate, while product evaluation indicated strong competency attainment. However, discrepancy analysis highlighted a critical paradox: despite high stakeholder satisfaction and skill acquisition, regional labor market placement remains constrained. These findings offer actionable insights for policy re-alignment to bridge the gap between educational performance and graduate employability in developing economies.